Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

7 Candles For Your Memorial Day Celebration

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Memorial Day Candles

Memorial Day is a solemn occasion that serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by brave men and women who have fought for our country’s freedoms. It is a time to honor their service and sacrifice, to remember their lives and to express our gratitude for their dedication and bravery. Memorial Day is a time to come together with family and friends to pay tribute to those who have given their lives in service to our nation, and to celebrate the principles of freedom and democracy that they fought to defend.

The colors of Red, White and Blue are ever representative of our nation’s values and ideals, and what better way to display our patriotism than to showcase those colors in our decorations. Today, we have brought you 7 ideas to make candles using the patriotic colors, perfect for adding a touch of warmth and light to your Memorial Day celebrations. These candles can be made for a small display in your home or for a large party, and they are all simple to make yet stunningly beautiful. Whether you choose to make a single candle or an entire collection, these DIY projects are sure to add a special touch to your Memorial Day commemorations. So, let’s get started and honor those who have served our country with these meaningful and patriotic candle-making ideas.

ricecandle

1- Memorial Day Candle Craft from Today’s Creative Blog

RWBpolkadots

2- Patriotic Candle Holders from My Little Me

citronella

3- Fourth of July Citronella Candles from Alpha Mom

yoyoburlap

4- Patriotic Yo-Yo Burlap Candle Wrap from The Country Chic Cottage

firecracker

5- Firecracker Candles from Mod Podge Rocks

sandcandles

6- Sand Candles from Martha Stewart.com

4thofjulytartcandle

7- 4th of July Patriotic Tarts from Craft Bits

 

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Clay Studio Series – YouTube Video Review: What type of clay should I use?

What Type of Clay Should I Use? Comparing Three Stoneware Bodies

If there’s one question that potters—especially beginners—ask over and over again, it’s this: “What type of clay should I use?” With so many options available, from smooth white bodies to gritty, speckled stonewares, the choice can feel overwhelming. In this Clay Studio Series feature, we’re reviewing a video that takes the guesswork out by throwing, trimming, and comparing three distinct stoneware clays side by side.

Why This Video Stands Out

Instead of just talking about clay in theory, the potter works directly with three clay bodies and shows the differences in real time. You can see how each clay reacts on the wheel, how it trims when leather-hard, and what kinds of issues may arise depending on the body you choose. This hands-on comparison makes it far easier to understand than simply reading product labels.

The video also tackles a common curiosity: the pink-toned ES80 stoneware, often admired for its warm coloring. The creator points out that this clay is manufactured for reduction firing and won’t give the same results in oxidation, a detail that often gets overlooked by beginners.

Key Lessons for Beginners

  • Not All Clay is Equal: Some clay bodies are far more forgiving for new potters, while others require more experience to manage.

  • Know Your Firing Method: Certain clays, like ES80, are formulated specifically for reduction kilns. Using them in an electric oxidation kiln may leave you disappointed.

  • Texture & Plasticity Matter: Smooth clays can be easier to throw but may slump when trimming. Grittier bodies hold structure but can be harder on your hands.

  • There’s No Single “Best” Clay: Each clay has its pros and cons — the trick is matching your choice to your skill level and the project you have in mind.

Why We Recommend Watching

For beginners, choosing the right clay can mean the difference between frustration and success. This video demystifies the process by giving a clear visual comparison of three popular stoneware options. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of what qualities to look for in a clay body and which ones might fit your needs best.

For intermediate and advanced potters, the insights are still valuable. Even if you’ve been working with one clay for years, seeing how others handle could inspire you to experiment with something new.

This review proves that clay choice is less about finding a universal “best” and more about learning what works for you. Whether you want smooth, easy-to-handle clay for your first mugs or a robust, grogged body for sculptural pieces, this video is a fantastic guide to help you make a confident decision.

Watch the full video here: What Type of Clay Should I Use?